How Not to Fall Off Your Airplane

An airfield accident while refueling a Cessna 170 leads to powerful lessons.

Wednesday, November 09, 2022 at 11:36 AM ET

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Had the 170 been equipped with foot steps and handholds, or had the nearby stepladder been utilized, this scene would have never taken place. [Courtesy: Paul Cooley]

Key Takeaways:

The author suffered broken ribs after a fall while fueling his airplane, underscoring the dangers of unsafe practices and the absence of proper safety equipment.
The quick response and support from fellow aviators and friends at the airport were vital for immediate aid, emergency contact, and practical help like aircraft management and transport.
The experience reinforced critical safety lessons, including the need for proper fueling procedures (e.g., using ladders, installing aircraft steps) and carrying satellite communicators in remote environments.

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The 911 dispatcher was very confused. “Wait, you’re saying he fell out of his airplane? Where is the airplane now?” she asked. Patty, the woman who ran to my aid, clarified, “No, he fell OFF of his airplane. He wasn’t flying at the time. The airplane’s right here.”

Patty went on to explain to the dispatcher that I had been fueling my airplane when I lost my footing, fell to the concrete, and was now in excruciating pain. Bones were probably broken, but my head appeared to be fine. The dispatcher, finally understanding the situation, advised that an ambulance was en route and would be on the scene shortly.